Paul Dickov names 2026 Ballon d’Or winner a “complete footballer”

Former Arsenal striker Paul Dickov has identified Declan Rice as the most likely winner of the Ballon d’Or, but only if Arsenal secure the Champions League title this season.

Dickov praised Rice, describing the England midfielder as a “complete and wonderful footballer.”

“Declan is a wonderful, complete player,” Dickov told MrQ, as quoted by the Irish Mirror. “Whether Arsenal win the Premier League or not, the Champions League is what really matters for the Ballon d’Or. So if Arsenal go on and win the Champions League, then Declan Rice has in with a great shout for the Ballon d’Or.”

Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham United, has become a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad to date.